:: MAY 2009 $2.95

Special Cypriot American Issue

Cyprus Ascendant Cyprus ready for business Cyprus wines launch new campaign Cyprus Exhibition in Chicago CYPRUS FEDERATION NATIONAL CONVENTION

Human Rights Champion US Senator RobertRobert MenendezMenendez

New York City Greek Independence Day Parade L100 New Generation Leader Justin Bozonelis Anna Vissi in Hollywood!

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Sen. Bob Menendez “Our decisions on the major 33 issues are going to write the type of century this will be for America and for the world”

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Cyprus – US Chamber Aris Melissaratos 37 of Commerce Merit honored by his fellow Award Cephalonians 19 34

Exhibition on the Cyprus Federation Movement for a Greek pride marched The New Generation of America: A force United Cyprus in along Fifth Avenue of Leaders to reckon with Chicago 19 8 22 24 38

Cyprus: Ready for Business L100 Partners kick off Cultural or Religious more than ever Membership Campaign Identity 10 16 28

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Cyprus Wine PSEKA gathers Association launches Cypriots in DC for its Capital Link Forum on Anna Vissi in US campaign annual conference International Shipping Hollywood Cyprus and its champions

he very best kind of friend that Cyprus has is U.S. :: magazine Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey, himself Tthe son of immigrants, who as my colleague Demetrios Rhompotis describes it, one day “met his constituent and neighbor Tasos Zambas, who challenged Editor in Chief: him to help him visit his house in the occupied area Dimitri C. Michalakis Cyprus after 30 years. Menendez not only took the [email protected] :: request seriously, but a little while later he managed to Features Editor cross the Green Line of division between the free and the Katerina Georgiou occupied Cyprus and took Zambas to his home – [email protected] inhabited by Turks – in what became perhaps the first :: case of a refugee going back to his birthplace after the brutal Turkish invasion of 1974.” Lifestyle Editor Maria Athanasopoulos Menendez went on to visit the island repeatedly, and has even brought his children Alicia [email protected] :: and Robert along to learn the plight of the Greek Cypriots firsthand. He has also Western Region Desk demonstrated his zeal for the Cypriot cause in Congress, repeatedly calling for the Irma Seferi-Goodenough withdrawal of Turkish troops from the island and sponsoring a resolution with Maine (323) 651-3507 Senator Olympia Snowe. “Let me be clear,” he said, “there is no justification for the 43,000 [email protected] Turkish troops to be in Cyprus. Millions of people have been crossing the buffer zone :: without incident for years. There are no military attacks and there is no need for military Baltimore Desk protection of Turkish Cypriots. In the end, these troops only serve to create military Georgia Vavas tension.” [email protected] :: Photo/Fashion His advocacy of the rights of the Greek Cypriots has drawn the notice of other notable ETA Press human rights defenders: “Senator Menendez, as a human rights advocate I want to :: applaud you once again for your courage and commitment to human rights, the ethnic, and Graphic Design religious problems and above all your commitment to the real change in our foreign Policy,” NEOgraphics Inc. past president of CFA and PSEKA Harry Theofanus praised him. Adrian Salescu :: Publishing Committee Chairman: Nick Larigakis of the American Hellenic Institute calls the senator a “man of great integrity Demetrios Rhompotis and moral values. His actions as an esteemed member of the U.S. Senate are consistent [email protected] with his obligation to support and defend the constitution of the United States and his :: constituents. And as a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee he never acts in Marketing and Advertising Director way that might compromise the interests or jeopardize the security of the United States.“ Kyprianos Bazenikas [email protected] Most remarkable in the whole tragedy of Cyprus for the past thirty-five years is how the :: country has not only survived, but won adherents around the world, and has flourished Athens Liaison economically. Despite its plight and the battles it has to wage every day to retain its Konstantinos Rhompotis international standing and find justice for the injustice of its partition, Greek Cypriots have (01130) 210 51 42 446 seen to it that Cyprus retain its traditional role as a mecca for business, commerce and (01130) 6937 02 39 94 [email protected] culture and one of the most visited spots on the globe. : Check our website And in America, activists like Peter Papanicolaou , George Sofocleous and Nicos Pafitis of www.neomagazine.com the Cyprus Federation, and the stalwart Philip Christopher of PSEKA (with the help of :: crusading public officials like Menendez) have never forgotten their roots and have kept NEO Magazine alive the cause for half a lifetime and deserve to be among the leading authors of this truly- is published monthly by astonishing Cyprus success story. Neocorp Media Inc. P.O. Box 560105 College Point, NY 11356 Phone: (718) 554-0308 e-Fax: (718) 878-4448 Dimitri C. Michalakis [email protected] Despite the current crisis, the United States of America remains an indisputable economic superpower. The importance of Aristos Constantine with then Senator Barack Obama New York as a financial and commercial heart of the global economy is irrefutable and remains a focal point in the activities of the Cyprus Trade Center. The mobilization of foreign direct investments (FDI) and export promotion as the essence of advancing interests in other countries, a goal pursued by all countries, is one of the primary objectives of Cyprus. The Functions of the Trade Center as the commercial arm of our diplomatic representation in the United States, has become increasingly diverse in recent years. In a globalized and interconnected world, the role of our foreign trade representation has evolved into a private enterprise mindset… the Trade Center has come to be the eyes and ears of the business community in the marketplace and it is an important strategic partner for connecting business to opportunities and assisting in the assessment of business risks. In the past 20 years, the Cyprus economy has shifted from agriculture and manufacturing to a predominantly services based economy. In particular, since Cyprus’ accession to the European Union in 2004, a great many changes have Leveraging such opportunities with professionalism and a targeted strategy is imperative. Cyprus has a robust and transparent legal and regulatory environment which is a key, positive driver in the decision making process when it comes to investors. Cyprus already has a track record in FDI and as an international business center. In recent years, we have seen an ever increasing number of companies being registered in Cyprus, engaged in conducting business in and through Cyprus.

Cyprus has double tax treaties with a number of countries, many of which contain With New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg reduced withholding tax rates, principally on dividends, interest and capital gains. As such, the primary uses of Cyprus by US multinational corporations are for corporate holding and financing activities, which result in these multinationals saving withholding taxes in the countries where they have operating subsidiaries. taken place in the way the various sectors and industries of the The use of Cyprus in this manner, not only benefits the corporations but effectively Cyprus economy operate. Accession to the European Union obliged increases the net flow of dividends into the USA which would otherwise have been Cyprus to reform its tax system, and bring it into line with EU reduced by such excessive requirements and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and non Cyprus withholding taxes. Examples of countries where US multinationals invested Development (OECD) initiative against Harmful Tax Practices. Cyprus or provided finance and used Cyprus intermediaries to channel such investments are is now classified by the OECD under the group of "Jurisdictions that Russia, Ukraine and India. have substantially implemented the internationally agreed tax With increased competition for FDI globally, our challenge today is to focus on matching standard" and are included on the OECD’s “White List”. Cyprus’ clusters of advantages to the needs of investors in key priority sectors of the In the past we capitalized on the good political and economic economy and articulate them through targeted and focused promotion. Promotion, relations that we enjoyed with members of the former Soviet bloc to therefore, is perhaps the most important and most complicated aspect of our mission because it touches so many areas, become the principal conduit for foreign investment in and out of products, geographies, and comes face to face with the tough competition from other Central and Eastern Europe. Cyprus is now well-placed to play a jurisdictions. We have to tell our story in a compelling manner that resonates with similar role for facilitating investment from the USA in and out of the investors. EU, Middle East and Asia. To this end, The Cyprus Trade Center actively seeks to foster strong relationships based The Global economic environment is facing a possible long term on mutual benefit with existing and prospective investors by listening to their needs, financial crisis which has led to a reduction in international helping address or resolve their issues by developing and highlighting Cyprus investment flows. Nevertheless, opportunities exist even in periods advantages to meet those needs and by encouraging and facilitating their further of economic recession. Precisely because of these uncertain times, expansion. In the perfect storm, safe harbors are few and foreign investors are looking for safe havens and overall more far between… Cyprus is one of them. conducive destinations which better serve their business strategies. Aristos Constantine is the Trade Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus in New York. MAY 2009 news and notes 8 Cyprus Wine Association launches US campaign

From left, Cara Richardson, Kristen Helmeset, behind her is Molly Hannon (project manager), next to Kristen is Andry Dallago (exhibition manager), Loucas Michaelides (export manager KEO), Dennis Droushiotis (managing director) and Aristos Constantine (Cyprus Trade Commissioner).

The ancient Greeks brought wine to the Cypriot life and it is vital to the economic 86% of Cyprus wine exports worldwide. In masses, the Romans to the world. But it was health of the country. Today, tremendous North America, the two-year initiative will the innovation of the Cypriots that showed resources and efforts have been invested comprise of retail in-store tasting programs, them how. “The earliest examples of into rediscovering indigenous Cypriot grape wine seminars, trade and consumer winemaking in the Mediterranean have varieties. This has led to producing a advertising, and participatory exhibitions, been in Cyprus,” claims archaeologist Maria superior wine imbued with an original such as the South Beach Food and Wine Belgiorno Rossi. Evidence of ancient Cypriot character. Cyprus also remains one Festival and the New York Wine Expo. drinking horns and two jugs containing of the few phylloxera-free wine-producing grape seeds dated between 3500-3000 B.C. countries in the world. Therefore, Cypriot There are fifteen indigenous grape varieties prove its early winemaking prowess and wines are European Vitis Vinifera self-sown in Cyprus. The most widely cultivated are the Xynisteri, Mavro, Opthalmo, and eventual influence through the rest of plants retaining their classic organoleptic Marathefhtiko. The Xynisteri represents Europe. The legendary Commandaria was characteristics and potential for long life. Cyprus’ white grape variety. It produces a introduced to Europe by the Crusaders and Although amongst one of the oldest grape lovely light colored white wine with low has been made on the island since 1,000 varietals in the world, its re-entry into the alcohol levels and low to medium acidity B.C. It is the world’s oldest wine in world market offers a new and exciting that is pleasing to the palette. The production and was celebrated by the Greek alternative to the varietals that have Maratheftiko represents the red grape poet Homer, drunk by the Pharaohs of dominated in the past. variety. Densely concentrated throughout Egypt, and lamented by the Crusader the mountain regions of Paphos and Pitsilia, Richard the Lion Heart who once said “I The newly formed Cyprus Wine Association it is considered extremely rare and valuable. must return to Cyprus if only to taste this launched its “Euro Wines” marketing campaign at the New York Wine Expo and This rare grape produces a high quality wine wine again.” Such testimonials continue South Beach Food and Wine Festival held rich both in color and body. Its fruity aroma right down to the present. According to earlier this year. Worth noting was the white of cherries and blackberries compliment the Dennis C. Droushiotis, former Trade Xynisteria and red Mavro varietals. When country’s terroir further distinguishing and Commissioner of Cyprus to North America combined these unique wines produce the revealing its true Cypriot character. and currently Managing Director of The renowned dessert wine, Commandaria. The Enchanted by the wines Maratheftiko Cyprus Wine Association, “Commandaria Village Voice praised the Association saying produces and enticed by its growing consistently wins ‘Best Buy – Exceptional’ “Best of all were the wines from Cyprus,” in potential, Cypriot wine producers are eager ratings from Wine & Sprits Magazine. Wine its article, NY Wine Expo: Best Cheap Finds. to invest in it. Enthusiast Magazine rates it one of the ‘Top 10 Dessert Wines’ in the world.” And wine The Cyprus Wine Association was formed by Mr. Droushiotis notes that “Cyprus is the experts like Jonathan Levine praise it: “I love The Republic of Cyprus and the European highest per capita wine exporter in the its aromas of dried fruit – apricots and Union as a joint project. The project’s world with one fifth of its population peaches – and undertones of nuts and mission is to increase trade and consumer employed by the wine industry. During the honey.” awareness. The Association is comprised of harvest season, one third of its population is the four major Cypriot wineries: ETKO, KEO, engaged in the winemaking.” Winemaking remains a central aspect of LOEL, and SODAP, all of which represent

MAY 2009 news and notes 10 difficulties that the country has faced in at of three billion dollars that has been lost in least two generations” need to be met. “It’s collective wealth, high foreclosure rates, an awesome responsibility. I know that my two wars abroad and challenges in the decisions today, as a United States Senator, world in addition to those two wars. So you go far beyond the moment. Our decisions put all them together and ask what Obama on these major issues of the day are going has done in a hundred days?Well, he has to write the type of century this will be for created stability in the economic front, has America and for the world.” attacked it frontally in terms of being GOS aggressive to make sure that we don’t end Any signs of recovery in the economy? up in a global depression instead of a global ANA I see that we have signs of stabilization and I recession, we are strengthening our think we have seen the beginning of moving financial institutions, we are finding ways on the right direction. But we still have work for which homes will ultimately be to do. My hope is that, maybe sooner, but preserved by their owners, we are changing US Senator Bob Menendez with Archbishop certainly by the end of the second quarter our energy dynamics to a green energy

Demetrios of America. Peter Papanicolaou, O: DIMITRIOS P of next year, we will see some more economy that will create jobs here at home T President of the Cyprus Federation of America, significant progress. But, along the way, we and be able to promote technology

is in background. PHO will see progress that will be benchmarks to throughout the world that will help us with tell that we are moving on the right our global warming challenges and finally With NEO's Demetrios Rhompotis during the interview direction, they just won’t be as fully robust creating a new set of relationships in the as we would all like. Maybe things will get world in which America will hopefully end with more allies and less enemies. Senator Menendez with his friend better a little quicker and that will be great. (and constituent) Tassos Zambas In that case, Democrats will be in the Some people say that the President’s majority for ever! popularity here and abroad might turn into a self-serving situation and thus hold him If by June of next year we can prove to from making tough decisions. people that they can see the light and see where we are going, I think it will be good I think that President Obama will do what’s for us. Right now, this is all about necessary to protect the national interests performance: it’s about getting the work and the security of the United States. I also Sen. Bob Menendez: done and showing people that we can think that what he is trying to do is to show govern. that diplomacy can be a tool of strength, not a tool of weakness. In fact,countries that “Our decisions on the major issues are going to write the type of century How are things in New Jersey? You had the use diplomacy add to their arsenal in terms Vice President visiting yesterday. of getting their national interests and national security met. We had too little of this will be for America and for the world” By Demetrios Rhompotis We need the economic recovery across the country. New Jersey isn’t immune to the that in the last eight years and too much of economic challenge and we will have about the gun and the bomb versus the A few weeks ago, Secretary of State Hillary three billion dollars coming to New Jersey engagement. So, I think the president will Clinton spoke before the House Foreign through the Economic Recovery and use both, he will use diplomacy to its Relations Committee, surprising everyone "I have an empathy with Greek Cypriots who had an invasion of Reinvestment Act. The Vice President was maximum, and he will use military force with her well-formed positions on Cyprus, there yesterday with the Governor and when he thinks that’s the way in which he to the extent that she even called the Annan myself to show one of the many projects needs to respond. Plan “a mistake.” “She was unbelievable,” the northern part of their country by Turkish forces …When you that are taking place to create jobs. In just Zambas commented in all seriousness. As you said, this is perhaps the most that project, 500 jobs will be created. We Again, sources say that a meeting with challenging time for America in generations. need to create economic opportunity, to Senator Menendez prior to her appearance At the same time, Democrats enjoy almost loose your freedom and your rights or your homeland that is a have a ripple effect in our economy that is before the Committee was extremely absolute power. You have the president, a positive and moving to the right direction helpful in clarifying some of the issues, in majority on the House and majority on the and so we believe that what we are doing in order for the new administration not to Senate. The field is yours. crystallizing moment in terms of how important what you lost is” New Jersey to bring jobs in construction, in continue the Bush-Chaney misguided education in new energy, is critical for us to It is what I consider a joyful burden. We are policies on Cyprus. For US Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Congressman, he met his constituent and Cyprus Claims Ace, which would make it meet the challenges of today and prepare in the majority now but we are also meeting the man who, according to former Senator neighbor Tasos Zambas, who challenged possible for US citizens who own property in Bob Menendez entered public service as a ourselves for tomorrow. the challenges of the greatest difficulties Paul Sarbanes, has done more in his 16 him to help so that he could visit his house the Turkish-occupied area to seek financial 19-year old college student when he that the country has faced in at least two What do you think of the Administration’s years in Congress for Hellenic issues than in the occupied Cyprus after 30 years. compensation in American courts. launched a successful petition drive to generations. And so, that is an enormous many Greeks, the case of Cyprus rings a Menendez not only took the request performance so far? challenge. In the Senate, however, our The line of measures and initiatives taken by reform his local school board. He has also familiar bell. The son of Cuban refugees seriously, but a little while later he managed majority is still not what we call a filibuster this tireless Senator goes far too long to be served as mayor, state legislator and, since I think, overall, I‘d give them good grades. himself, “I have an empathy with Greek to cross the Green Line of division between proof majority (you need 60 votes for that included here. Last year, right after the 1992, he has been a member of Congress, First of all, this is my 36th year of public life Cypriots who had an invasion of the the free and the occupied Cyprus and took and currently Democrats have 59 after Arlen Greek veto in Bucharest on FYROM’s NATO where he rose to become the third-highest and I have never seen a greater set of northern part of their country by Turkish Zambas to his home – inhabited by Turks – Specter of Pennsylvania joined the Party a accession, Menendez put a hold on a Senate ranking Democrat in the House of challenges before America, I have never forces …When you lose your freedom and in what became perhaps the first case of a couple of weeks ago). Of course, next year’s resolution introduced by Senator Voinovich, Representatives before taking office in the seen a greater set of consequential issues, I your rights or your homeland that is a refugee going back to his birthplace after elections will determine what the ultimate because it included two offensive Senate in 2006, becoming the first Senator really believe that the history of this crystallizing moment in terms of how the brutal Turkish invasion of 1974. number is for moving forward. So that paragraphs. It took some behind the scenes of Hispanic descent. American century is being written right now, important what you lost is,” he says in a in the choices we make, in the decisions we means we still are working with some of our Since that time, Bob Menendez has visited deliberations and the intervention of a few He considers “a joyful burden” the fact that rather philosophical mood talking to NEO take and the road that we travel. And I moderate Republican colleagues, we would Cyprus several times, including with his other senators, but the objectionable the Democrats control both Houses – one sunny New York afternoon. never saw a president who inherited in one like to do that even if we had 60, but very children Alicia and Robert. One of the first paragraphs were removed from the actually the three branches of government, singular moment more challenges in the often we have to go with less than what we Indeed, his involvement with Hellenic issues things he did as Senator was to introduce document. if you include the White House – but at a economy with failing financial institutions, a would desire. started on that familiar premise in the mid- with Olympia Snow a bill titled the time when “the challenges of the greatest 90s when in his second term as a American-Owned Property in Occupied collapse in the housing market to the tune

MAY 2009 MAY 2009 cover story cover story 12 13 things she must respect is religious freedom. The Ecumenical Patriarch is the leader of millions of Orthodox Christians in the world and therefore Turkey must have his rights of religious freedom preserved, like the Halki Seminary, the ability to have non-Turkish priests ordained and the ability to have non Turkish born clergy elected Patriarchs. I think there is a growing understanding in this issue and it unites people who believe strongly in religious freedom, regardless of what their religion Senator Menendez participates in panel on U.S. foreign policy with, from left, former may be. So, I see it as one of the primary U.S. Rep. Jim Leach, TV correspondent Judy Woodruff, Former Secretary of State Colin opportunities for Turkey to show that they Powell and State Department official Wendy Sherman - Newseum, Washington, DC. are moving in the right direction and I think the cores of voices on the government in For 300 million Americans, you are one of obstacle. Having visited with my friend Tasos the United States will continue to rise in this only 100 Senators. When you sit down and Zambas his ancestral home in the area of respect. And I will continue to bring it up reflect on that, on the challenges but also Mophou, and having experienced in my until we achieve the success we want. the power to do great things, how is it like. family the tremendous emotional May Greek Americans don’t think the new consequences of being a refugee, I fully administration has moved from the It’s awesome responsibility. I’m the son of understand why this is important. And I positions of the previous one to the extent political refugees, the first in my family to go think Cyprus can play a major role as a to college. If you told me, growing up poor that one can sense a difference. bridge between the East and West. Cyprus is in a tenement in New Jersey, that I could not just a country in and of itself, it is part of The new administration is getting its rise to be one of 100 United States Senators the European Union and what part of the foundation together, as I said earlier there is in a country of 300 million people, I would European Union would be allowed to be not an administration that inherited more have told you that isn’t possible. But it is the divided with occupation? enormous challenges all at the same, than promise of America fulfilled, it is a promise I this one. I think the reality is that while we fight every day to keep real for the next There seem to be similarities between all have expectations and desires both at generation of Americans. And so, for me, it’s Cuban-Americans and Greek-Americans home and abroad, it’s been only a little over an awesome responsibility and because of when it comes to political activity and a hundred days and not everything can be the challenges we are facing are so electing their own people in office. Also, accomplished in that time frame. It is my consequential, I know that my decisions both have a national issue that serves as expectation that with the encouragement of today, as a United States Senator, go far driving force. Congress, the encouragement of those of us beyond the moment. Our decisions on these who support President Obama, we will major issues of the day are going to write When you lose your freedom and your continue to move the administration into the type of century this will be for America rights or your homeland, that is a the right direction, working with the and for the world. And so, I probably have crystallizing moment in terms of how Secretary of State, so that they understand spent more time in my 36 years of public important what you lost is and it gives you a both our resolve as a Congress and service thinking about my decisions and renewed sense especially for the following strengthen their resolve to meet some of revisiting what I think will be my position on generation, of the importance of civic life. those challenges. So I expect greater success any given thing. More than even before I’m And now, those of us who come from as we move forward, it’s very early in the thrilled to be in the Senate in a moment of families who have lost our native countries, administration. history, in which we talk about making a or countries of our forefathers, or who have lost rights along the way, we have a very difference. Right now this is the ultimate In your 36 years of public service you have compelling drive to make sure that this opportunity to make a difference. met with many Greek-Americans as well as thing never happens here. And to remind Greek and Cypriot officials here and abroad. Has the fact that you are the son of refugees others of what they should not take for How would you evaluate our approach made you more sensitive when it came to granted. And finally, to promote that same when it comes to promoting our issues in shape your position in the case of the democracy for those who have lost it. The the US? Turkish invasion and occupation of Cyprus reason you see the activity in which you that produced tens of thousands of refuges? have many Greek-Americans as well as I think that as Greek-Americans increasingly Cuban-Americans in elected positions of become more sophisticated, their role will In my 16 years in Congress, first in the local, state and federal levels is because like be enhanced in this democracy in terms of House of Representatives (and on the House the great Paul Sarbanes when he was in the their right to be advocates for US-Greek- International Relations Committee) and the Senate, he transcended the issues of Greece Cypriot relations in a way that many other last three years-and-a half in the Senate and Cyprus and became a Senator who groups are doing it, like Irish-American in (Foreign Relations Committee), I have people respected on so many issues, that terms of promoting peace in Northern always been a promoter of democracy and gives us the gravitas to talk about these Ireland, Jewish-Americans in the Middle human rights. In the case of Cyprus I have issues. Those experiences drive us. East etc. However, I have also seen a very an empathy with Greek Cypriots who had an significant undertaking by the Turkish invasion of the northern part of their government in the United States, country by Turkish forces who continue to You have also been a champion when it particularly through think tanks and other occupy it in one of the most militarized comes to protecting the Ecumenical entities, to promote their ideas and I think places in the world, with no reason in terms Patriarchate of state persecution in Turkey that could probably behoove the Greek and of a threat to Turkish Cypriots. I’ve come to and also promoting peace and stability in Cypriot governments as well. If I was to an appreciation that if Turkish Cypriots were the Aegean, threatened constantly by make a recommendation, I would say left alone to their own devices with Greek Turkish violations. expanding the universe of who knows about Cypriots we’d have a solution to this It is my hope that as Turkey wants to these issues and promoting their own views problem. But the intervention of Ankara into progress on the world stage, as she wants to would be very helpful to those outside of the politics of the reunification is an be part of the European Union, one of the the Greek community.

MAY 2009 cover story 14 Senator Dick Durbin

Philip Christopher (right) with journalist and author Christopher Hitchens at a past PSEKA conference in DC. Cathy and George Sakellaris

Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator John Kerry (D-MA), and the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs PSEKA gathers Cypriots in DC Committee, Congressman Howard Berman (D-CA), are also expected to address the conference. The delegation from Cyprus will include the for its annual conference Mayors of Famagusta, Alexis Galanos, Lefkoniko, Michalis Pilikos, and Akanthou, Savvas Savvides, as well as the Director of Overseas Cypriots Charalambos Ioannides. Senator Durbin and the Sakellaris couple to be honored The International Coordinating Committee "Justice for Cyprus", also known as PSEKA, Over 100 of the top Greek-American and Democratic Party leadership in the Senate. was founded in 1975 by the late President Cypriot-American leaders from across the In April 2006, Time magazine listed him as of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios. The country, and Hellenes from around the one of "America's 10 Best Senators." Earlier organization, with headquarters in Nicosia, world, will be in Washington, D.C. May 20- this year, he led a delegation to Cyprus, Cyprus, has chapters all over the world. Its 22, 2009 for the 25th Annual Cyprus and Greece and Turkey in an attempt to have North American headquarters are located in Hellenic Leadership Conference hosted by first hand knoweledge in an array of issues New York City. Today PSEKA is staffed by PSEKA (The International Coordinating the area is facing. professionals and volunteers working Committee "Justice for Cyprus") and the together in cities all over the United States Entrepreneur George Sakellaris had a vision Coordinated Effort of Hellenes. and Canada. Over the last few years, PSEKA of creating an energy company that had the and its Board of Directors has begun a push “At this crucial time for Cyprus settlement skills, capabilities and foresight to create via the Internet, to raise awareness over the efforts, conference participants will again be energy solutions that went beyond just plight of the people of Cyprus. meeting with over 30 key U.S. Senators and conservation. As a result he founded “Our mission remains the pursuit of a just Members of Congress who serve on the Ameresco in April 2000. Mr. Sakellaris was and viable solution to the Cyprus Problem, pertinent committees and subcommittees also appointed to be a Senior Vice President which will see the people of Cyprus free and others who play a major role in the of a Fortune 500 Energy Company and he from the tyranny of an invading force - that formulation of these matters,” said Philip served as a founding member of the of the Turkish Armed Forces - which Christopher, President of PSEKA. “They will National Association of Energy Service occupies over 35% of its territory,” explains also be meeting with high-level Companies. Together with his wife Cathy are Philip Christopher. “While the history of the administration officials in charge of U.S. involved in a series of philanthropic, cultural conflict between Turkey and Cyprus is policy toward Cyprus, Greece and Turkey.” and social activities that have brought them rooted in the 60's and 70's, the At previous conferences participants have at the forefront of civic life as exemplary repercussions of that conflict has definitely met with Presidents, Vice Presidents, citizens. spilled over to the new millenium.” cabinet members and senior officials. The participants at this year’s PSEKA Today, the Cyprus Problem remains the only This year, Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), the conference include Congressmen Ed Royce source of military and political tension in the Assistant Senate Majority Leader and close (R-CA) and Russ Carnahan (D-MO), both southern sphere of influence of Europe and friend of President Barack Obama, will members of the House Foreign Affairs the Balkans region. “We will never forget, receive the Paraskevaides Award and Committee who just visited Cyprus, we will never cease. Our mission is to see George and Cathy Sakellaris, a Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and Barbara Cyprus free of occupying forces. This is a Massachusetts powerhouse couple, will be Boxer (D-CA) of the Senate Foreign Relations fate its people, both Greek and Turk honored with the Livanos Award. Committee and Senator Arlen Specter (D- deserve,” Christopher pointed out, himself a PA) of the Senate Foreign Operations Richard Joseph "Dick" Durbin is the senior refugee from the occupied port city of Appropriations Subcommittee, Illinois State US Senator from Illinois and Majority Whip, Kyreneia. Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias and New York the second highest position in the State Assemblyman Mike Gianaris. Both, the

MAY 2009 news and notes 16 M A e v Y e 18 2 n 0 t 0 9 Joanna Sav Despina Axiot Kiki Laz F C rom left,Archimandrit Oper Pr Audiov Ex the OlympianBankasPr Ex thr the In the A He beg Univ Gr (1958) asw Univ Mas Degr gr and a of 1953,heemigr F Chris G.Laz about! c tha accepting thea the e per her f His daugh Mechanic Apple Gr Ar Geor St joined ac Cyprus U K member oftheChamber Y annual g the CyprusU Chris G.Laz ork Hilt ons amagus ak elios HajiIoannouofeas adua esiden ecutiv ecutiv ch Insur adua ough ther t duringthepr son heis,pr oyiannis poin y t er er t a ee. Hisgr g a er ofScienceDegr xt tlan an t t ther andspok arides, P e P tions un t sity (1970). sity Gr erna p t an hisc o en ended ColumbiaColleg t ed in1957withaBachelorofArts tly w e SchoolofBankingRutg x Corpor e Of e VicePr on. Mr ala heldearlierinMa t/Dir oup andP t .S. 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The ailable oduce ork, ormer e the eedom en Chris Laz Angeliades and St Holiday F ce e rom left,F ef tial ty); r . at with Nik s os, Mik c , James arides www Chamber ofCommer Mor Gr Andr Ambassador ofCyprusinW w Chamber Cer Laz Business Ne A member member support andthec CCC r and furtherenhanceitspr as Pr K their pr r “ find jobsandperhapsmak F of Commer T the Chamberc Dinner heldinNewY them clearfr Besides theDis and pr c spok Chairman. Addr said AndyComodr r of c and theUnit r c W las Andreas P As alw es espectiv ela as e ommunity ommer air inManha ak t thisy elc e ar annie eece inNewY t y ts onitsmember ting withtheHellenicAmeric os Mouyiaris arides’ niece,w emonies. DespinaAxiot oyiannis, ala ommer tions be e e inf omed thegues e abouttheendur esiden eas K .cyprususchamber ear alone! elies onthec M e her aised theirleader a of ear cial, indus y s. s, asw orma e indus ’ essional in s, thec s tir ” ak avlou e cial e e “t ce anditholdsanannualCar t. “Inor ’ ’ tw s g s bank tw ouris, andtheConsulGener ed St om tr r eless Ex t tion ontheCyprus–US een theR t ala Nic ork Anchor o-sponsor o pr tinguished MeritAw ell asthea an helpoury essing theev x ork, Mr tries, tr w on i chang a ommitmen y trial, andec omos, theChamber s duringthecurr ouble. on omot t as theMis t der t tinuing successofCCC er ts, amongthemthe es andthedev t s, theirne er ork Ma ce c tinued financial , whorunshislas ecutiv ole P ance ofour action, es be .c A ades, andbusiness, s. AghiBalt o pur ship f epublic ofCyprus e and s aF an bef om , andMr t e of e c tr w akis, the e Dir t ashing y ofev alides, F essional imag action ofnew tw oung people en t ofits tr ood andWine sue itsgr ar or s ” said tw onomic ess of een their t, healso eer choices. a xt ound a ect an Chamber orking t end the . eering t elopmen r ery y a. on, Mr en or ar o , t crisis x d d owth ’ t y t s , and ear eer al of ear . e, , ” t t o C f c Americ Maria (UHA Americ In The the c The member Besides in occupa c or Ar pr Hilary Hilary those whoe the Striking line c r (with In W mee T c occupied This Cyprus Hellenism dignit Grig Minis Gr jus a underlining Con An Presiden F of CyprusAndrasK Greek Minis honoree atthec Maria V P or o ela on onsis oun onfidence ould urkish ederation ofAmeric e s t f omises ashing g imposing chbishop y eece’ erna t t t his her aniz eadf er P v futur tions) arr v r T of oris F t Cyprus en esolution p try en r A ri-St y C), eder t aries Geor pr ts ear er V Clin with c speech a Clin e c a an tion. tion, g a tional tion apanic arianides, s Cypriots. ommunic r y ommitmen as ov which a m the and of ov tions arianides wasthisyear's t e. or Na t oftheCyprus Niotis, Miltiades a on t u f ’ t c a similar s t of t o or t e errit t ernmen g Hellenic and 25 on’ r tion g who e on pr tha the tional ec of the e the a c r “ aniz Cyprus DC. F xpr Vice s the k e t Deme And eceiving ar on high-r eder er ofNationalDef se omot Sof ov chapt s apped the tha is olaou, in Coor Pr ories t as ea, o r fundamen r r ne essed uneasinessov r ov v tback pr F a things er ecen F eit a espect the esiden en ocleous Geor Also a chor eder i tions on superpow t a member Pr De Cyprus w a er tw aised n tion t e c Vir er trios er t anking tion tion V t dina long er 40 ell t issue, ak ven esiden seas Ins ook tha and Cyprus ar o ork f a t , ence d a t a ginia, d, of a the g member t a ha ouris andleadersoftheF visit la w o and vitsiotis, with look ed titut tion as e special t and y t tion. Here'swithArchbishopDeme ting the s w the t time PSEKA e c multi-f : Cypriot ear v Gr part g er of P F as closely ame Orf t as e a Pr the eder Gr e i al t Minis the e of t Gr v eek r A e of the er in t g the the pr o Ohio w hopes s f t vice e esiden er human f Joe eece’ ood Americ f anos a Commit the member eek orts T s ounded ork h Hellenic (AHI), oblem. Ma in a in ag a r urk s s. lik a in island ace Pr eport import P new w majority f Member t loc tion t ” ense V unity , enda pr with apanic the er unit e y in esiden ar man o of Biden i e Chic the s elect , of t the esiden t undert a o and y Cyprus d ed V both unequiv er Pr a . Cypriot solutions. t r adminis of Obama the ang a ed ed and c “I t of r the y n ee c on ag in in Socie eunit ance included w who w mor US addr Americ ed angeli Meimarakis,Ambassador w olaou CY Eur thr t ork. ak Chris c elis o a s esiden Americ v t houses e 1951 ould an apacities, Philip Unit t Council o and t , ak en “ CA e of e F of and oughout Jus W has ope the essing ed. tha ties eder the Americ oc en c abundance tr Meimar tion of ficials will onduciv ashing t (the P ed ” Eur a who a, lik os tice al arliamen t in tion ser har t ObamaandSecr Nic t of Chris r the a this las held e o a of eports annual ederation support ope spok not of tion Hellenic New and P Y Gr t be v os d outh o t apoutsis ans Congr the ed f w salut tha t the Hellenes or en akis, w so-c ea liner on, believ t in this as e y ar P opher f e of as also ear the or tity a t solution t in a Y e t er of on Unit Cyprus” fitis Division ficials of c ork r deleg ed alled Florida g s PSEKA s, pas ess c e-elect and Gr an the the t t e New omple Cyprus w has a e o of Americ the t and a the eek t ell-deser the sough ed trios, bear in tha City e t and w the dev their Abr na the April f a of ar honor c elections ormer er char Y t St activities on ome “par Deputy t es tional ork. ed and of e e division elopmen c t 37th e oad Joe e tha a and man e ely (PSEKA), s F onf xpr scheduled an t t f behalf trug t eder the pr in f es g among ary ofSt unopposed t of orts ado e t ee t o Calif pow e-election v er essed Biden New o (S Minis y ther including Congr curr ed of issues r CF Na gle enjoy ence AE), eassur a fruits F the x a tion or due in of A). ” of pr public ornia. erless of tional t t en e Y f eign of tha aise or ork, t and the the the the the the the the is a ess er his tly 28 as t t of of t in in o o e e a a a s t PHOTO: ETA PRESS PHOTO: ETA PRESS pshak Fir Pe additional ho em dela originally stretched f on demand Ev econom of the help strict addition, le pushed af months Ne the although As w activity and trends. demand American Y recently industr on Most t pr pr per statistics T OFFICE PERFORMANCE DEMAND FUNDAMENT act o o ork ould v of oper t sustain en w t s the er w els the the per plo er no f tSer rules ups its e ormance. y that st corporat Y ed v City of with Shak the adherence alis@f yment ork er contract. can f op ty f banks' ha f one's ormance y irst shrank inancial During vice the af higher y , and about is conditions . additions f f that v and t the the scheduled mark or or will occupancy t st entativ City e asset these In recor out. alis er 12.5% be headq q att ock declined, swre.com Williams uar space do in st at surprise, addition, e do shif em recognizes . assets maintained, ention help The . is one-thir in the et's ocks T wns the The In ded pr t wn sect ypically pr mark er fr a least glimmers plo ely the t uar of of of om shor oblems Direct in t w past econom ended construction o b turn . its yment. w t star or of t ne ar marking o y t There f o f a R costs. the on pr F eakness. ers et or reducing irst demand , tal d ASB d eal t, these w the se the stabilize with though, declined o , sharp y t spiral decidedly or of Ne fundamentals deliv vides establishes ear em ho supply t em v q W o ho among Es f eral b at uar the of or st that w y's is rules orld f f w y P good , plo all, irst plo tat w ock the f Y er a hope, assets illusionar irms e t in ork man t im a eter Shakalis w er the er yment e o r v y yment, and y w the ough Bo of eakness er T tal q the real ears. industr building 2 U osion f mark plosion in f on reason. ould rade or uar City's inancial positiv 1 .S. demand of th the y has personal .5% the rises it city f a banks f t inancial t positiv a ice global positiv econom o will er begins em surge et represent picture ALS DRIVING and y Near Cent dictat clear t econom current y 20 in mark o as is . e. space and Manhattan about w plo will Direct still Stretching mark institutions. reflect 1 as Ho this the the that f er e 1-20 the e or in yment income ed com be t sect et em upw t y f relationship be w erm the did o or space v buildings et six lost sect in e corporat olume, y that mark prices em sect pull ameliorat decline le v 12 plo a some the has panies, or ar er o the begin v t v precursor v o positiv plo el alues, this 5.3 . or , d yment erall and period or's of tw a This the earned out et and of Ne been city w path. has of yment f are elv so f ice time a million prices ice t w e net six depresses y o deliv that economic economic change corporat the operating are e e ed if or f Y pr fr and betw im a demand le or f 19 months ork ma sign. ocused current n om v t mark im St in o e v bef o oiding pr of b in ability w Nor M being some eries, els vided s w y ocks A pact nine Ne y jobs a ma o Y een this City n ere ore the the the the 2 v d be 0 th et In n in in e, 0 w e o 9 y t e s SS SS A PRE A PRE O: ET O: ET T T PHO PHO

From left, John Catsimatides, Tony Orlando, Senator Charles Schumer, Minister of Defense Vangelis Meimarakis, Archbishop Demetrios The Evzons of the Greek Presidential Guard of America and Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias

Minister Vangelis Meimarakis with his wife and SS Takis Nikolopoulos dressed as Theodoros Kolokotronis, SS one of the revolution's most important leaders. A PRE A PRE O: ET O: ET T T PHO PHO

Deputy Minister of the Interior Christos Zois, Alexi Giannoulias, Dimitrios Kalamaras, Archbishop Demetrios and Minister of National Defense Vangelis Meimarakis Greek pride marched along Fifth Avenue

On April 26, on a sunny and beautiful day reminiscent of Greece, more than 50,000 Greek-Americans and their friends, led by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Archbishop Demetrios of America, filed up Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue for the annual Greek parade, commemorating the 187th Anniversary of the Greek Declaration of Independence (March 25th, 1821) and also paying tribute to the Greek community’s accomplishments and contribution to the

SS American society. Illinois Treasurer and senatorial hopeful Alexi Giannoulias, Greek Minister of A PRE Defense Evangelos Meimarakis (Grand Marshals), a numerous delegation of the Greek Parliament, New York State Senator Dean Skellos, who rumors have O: ET

T running for New York governor in the near future, Rhode Island State Senator Lou Endy Zemenides and George Carayannopoulos Raptakis, who rumors have running for Lieutenant Governor or Secretary of surrounded by beautiful friends PHO State, New York Assemblyman Mike Gianaris, the American born Greek singing sensation Kalomoira, the famous Tony Orlando (Grand Marshal), one of New York’s most powerful people John Catsimatides, to mention just a few, joined tens of thousands of other Greeks who as they did in their youth, displayed the pride of their heritage in abundance. The annual Greek Independence Day Parade has become a New York City tradition. It started as early as 1938 and since 1951 the City has allocated it Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue, an honor reserved for only a handful of other ethnic SS groups. For the last three years it has been broadcast live on Channel 9 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm with anchors our fellow Greek Ernie Anastos with Rosanna A PRE Scotto. O: ET

T The biggest event of New York’s Greek community, the parade is organized by the Federation of Hellenic Societies with John Catsimatidis as Parade Chairman and

PHO Tasos Manessis, Phil Christopher, Nick Katsoris and Matthew Mirones as Co- Chairmen. The Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York represents a large number of Greek societies, fraternities and local organizations. It is the largest and the oldest (founded in 1937) federation in America. Its declared mission is to promote and preserve the Greek-American heritage and administer SS philanthropic endeavors. Since its inception, the Federation has distributed hundreds of thousands of dollars for medical aid, scholarships, disaster relief,

MAY 2009 A PRE and other charitable causes in North America and Greece. event O: ET 20 T PHO L100 Partners kick off eadership 100 Membership L L-R: Mike A. Manatos, Paulette Poulos, L100 executive Director (Interim), Campaign Constantine G. Caras, L100 Vice Chairman, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Stephen G. Yeonas, L100 Chairman, and Michael N. Bapis, L100 Partner National Chairman. Leadership 100 Partners, the young Neo Magazine and Leadership 100 have partnered to present a monthly profile of the New Generation of professional organization created by Leaders who belong to the Leadership 100 Partners Program which recruits young Greek American Leadership 100 to pass its mission on to the professionals on the rise in their careers, making membership affordable and providing a network for meeting next generation, kicked off the first event of Leadership 100 was founded 25 years ago by the visionary Archbishop Iakovos and a small band of outstanding a nation wide membership campaign in Greek American businessmen who wished to support the Greek Orthodox Church and perpetuate their faith and Washington DC. Under the capable Hellenic heritage in America, passing it on to future generations. leadership of Mike Manatos, a reception took place at The Source, a restaurant in the Justin Koutras Bozonelis Newseum, the popular interactive news Position: Vice President, Private Equity. Neuberger Berman Alternatives Advisory and Placement Group museum, in the nation’s capital on April 30. A group of some 30 young and impressive Education: BS Finance, Dean’s Merit Scholar. Stern School of Business at New York University Greek-American professionals gathered to hear the story of Leadership 100 and to Where were you born and where did you grow up? Through the significant financial contribution required of its share in an evening of fellowship. Fr. John Tavlarides, Dean, Saint Sophia Cathedral, greets John Sitilides, I was born in Morristown, New Jersey, and raised in Chatham, New members, Leadership 100 is the preeminent endowment fund Manatos, Vice President of Manatos and L100 Grant Chairman, and Constantine G. Caras. Background is Dina Theodosakis, Jersey, where I attended public schools. responsible for supporting the priority needs of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. It holds the deepest impact among major Manatos, a public relations firm, and the Paulette Poulos and Congressman Gus Bilirakis Who or what were the main influences in your life? third generation of his family involved in My family and the Greek Orthodox Christian faith. I am blessed with organizations in maintaining the life ministries of the church. This government relations, told L100 partners L-R: Michael N. Bapis, Congressman Gus Bilirakis, loving parents who stressed the importance of faith in our religion impact has been demonstrated by the commendable disbursement and prospective Partners how proud he was George Soterakis and Paul Kaldes and education. They selflessly sacrificed to provide me with the of grants throughout its 25-year history. to join Leadership 100 with his wife, Laura, opportunity to pursue my academic interests. I also have a very close How would you evaluate your so far experience in the organization? describing the organization as an relationship with my sister Lia, who has always been there for me and I have been very impressed with Leadership 100; the quality of the endowment program that provides valuable who knows that I am always there for her in return. My faith in Christ organization has exceeded even my initial high expectations. Through funding to the National Ministries of the continues to guide my life. the annual conference, recruiting events and informal networks, I Greek Orthodox Church. He thanked two have been able to interact and develop relationships with some of the distinguished young Greek American U.S. How did you get into your present work? My mother grew up in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, with my noni, most interesting and successful Greek-Americans in the U.S. These Congressmen in attendance, Gus Bilirakis, a relationships are rooted in a deep reverence for the Greek Orthodox Republican representing Florida’s 9th pappou and her three sisters. My pappou was very traditional and college was not an option for his daughters. My mom, however, Church, which makes for an overall positive experience and pervades Congressional District, who was elected to all organizational activities. the seat of his father, former U.S. wouldn’t accept this and enrolled at Vernon Court, a junior college in Representative Michael Bilirakis, and John Newport, RI. She supported herself by working at the Hasbro, Inc. toy As a new generation leader, what are some ideas of yours on the Sarbanes, a Democrat representing factory in Pawtucket. After succeeding in her studies, she transferred future of Leadership 100? Maryland’s 3rd Congressional District and to and graduated from George Washington University, in Washington Leadership 100 Partners are uniquely positioned as part of a the son of former U.S. Senator Paul S. D.C. where she met my father. community of both established Greek-American leaders as well as Greek-American young adults. This group may therefore come across Sarbanes. Both spoke on their concerns for When I was seven-years old, my Aunt Lillian gave me five Hasbro stock charitable initiatives that could help serve the Archdiocese, events Greek American issues and the human and L-R: Themis Johnson, Stephen G. Yeonas, certificates as a birthday present. I couldn’t believe that I had actually and programs which may not have been presented to the more senior religious rights issues regarding the situation Charlie and Vasiliki Szczesny become an owner of the company where my own mother once members of Leadership 100. With this in mind, I think it makes sense of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. worked, the very same huge factory we would drive by a few times a to have the Leadership 100 Partners involved in identifying potential year when visiting my noni. I treasured the gift and my father would Stephen G. Yeonas, Leadership 100 grant recommendations (on a smaller scale), which will help serve the help me check its value a few times a week in the local paper. It is Chairman, Constantine G. Caras, Leadership Greek Orthodox Church. 100 Vice Chairman, Paulette Poulos, through this practice that my interest in the stock market gradually Executive Director (Interim) of Leadership developed. We lost my Aunt Lilly to cancer, but I am thankful that one How has your involvement in Leadership 100 proved valuable in 100 and Michael N. Bapis, National of the many gifts she left behind was exposing me to my present other activities of your life? Chairman of Leadership 100 Partners, all career. I have made many new friendships through the Leadership 100 addressed the gathering. organization and given our common interests and values, I know that As a successful American you could and perhaps have joined major these relationships will endure. The annual conference in San Juan, The highlight of the evening was a moving organizations that are focused more on mainstream society. Why Puerto Rico was truly outstanding and an excellent way to meet other presentation by one of the newest L100 L100? members from various parts of the country. Partners, Maria Nanis Nionakis, who had For many of us, the Greek Orthodox Church is the focal point of our joined with her husband, Dimitri. She lives and an integral part of what shapes us as Greek-Americans. We What qualities do you most admire or value in others? are all baptized in the church, yet our understanding and appreciation Strength of faith, creativity, humor, integrity, humility and expressed deep pride in being a part of L-R: Stefanie Roumeliotes, Leadership 100 and in meeting so many of how deeply it impacts our lives tends to grow with time. I became selflessness. Maria Nanis and Mike A. Manatos prominent Greek Americans from especially close to the church after being tonsured a reader and acolyte at the age of 15 by Archbishop Iakovos. Whether living in New What do you consider your greatest achievement? throughout the United States at the 25th I think we all have achievements which serve as milestones at York, Miami Beach or Sydney, Australia, I have always attended church Anniversary Celebration Conference, held different points in our lives. My greatest recent professional faithfully and have looked forward to Holy Week as a time of renewal. just last February in Puerto Rico. achievement is surviving the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy and being Now a pacesetter of the Archdiocesan Cathedral, I am able to make promoted within its wake. Lehman Brothers filed for Chapter 11 In closing, Fr. John Tavlarides, Dean of Saint additional contributions and become more involved as I progress in bankruptcy protection on September 15th, 2008, and this was the Sophia Cathedral in Washington DC, my career. largest bankruptcy filing in U.S. history. I worked within the firm’s thanked Leadership 100 for its support of private equity division, which was substantially dismantled, and I Clergy and the Church at large.

MAY 2009 MAY 2009 event Continues on page 36 Leadership 100 22 23 Fr. Frank Marangos, Dean of the Cathedral, welcoming the participants. First row, from right to left are Archbishop Demetrios, Professor Christos Yannaras, Consul General of Greece Aghi Balta, Deacon Christos Yannaras, eminent theologian, philosopher, author of more A fundamental difference the Professor the folkloric aspects of culture and punish when we break the rules), however, Pantelaiemon and Archimandrite Sebastian. than 40 books translated into 10 languages, and professor emeritus of highlighted between the Orthodox Catholic reawakens us to the metaphysical needs it is actually more guidelines-oriented than Philosophy at Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences in Church and the Roman Catholic Church and and roots of Hellenism. rules–based. Abidance in rules for the sake Athens, Greece, was hosted recently by the Archdiocesan Cathedral of (Catholic from the Greek denotes of rules makes our faith less than what it the Holy Trinity in Manhattan and the Stathakion Center in Astoria. He universality in this context and is the term The Church and Orthodoxy are integral to can be for us. In Orthodoxy, the intention of spoke to audiences representing a cross-section of the Greek-American used in the early Church before the Great the Hellenic tradition. Ancient Greek the heart is as important as the action clerical and lay community including His Eminence Archbishop Schism) is that in the latter there is more thought in the pursuit of truth was realized based on Jesus’ emphasis on the ‘spirit of Demetrios. The topics he presented on were “Greek Orthodoxy: emphasis on the individual hence the and incorporated in early Christian thinking. the law’ vs. the ‘letter of the law’. Therefore, Cultural or Religious Identity” and “Revolution of 1821: A Clash of Two infallibility of the Pope. In the Roman Christianity was propagated largely because it is important to know why one does what Visions.” His visit and lecture series were made possible by the Arcadian Catholic Church, there is a different of the Greek Church Fathers and through one does in their faith and to do it willingly Society “Geros tou Moria,” the Athenian Society of New York, the understanding of “catholicity” in that the the rich and intricate expression of their and purposefully. Do we apply this critical SS Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, NEO magazine and under guiding principle is that every parish language. Our ancient ancestry, Greek and thought to ourselves: why do we believe or the aegis of the Federation of Hellenic Societies and the Panarcadian adheres to same principles applied across Orthodox Christian, is undeniable very rich. do we really believe? A PRE Federation of America. Ted Spyropoulos and Nick Mouyaris were the geographic boundaries. The question is again: can we rise to the events’ main sponsors. level of our forefathers and continue this We must understand the richness of our O: ET

T The Orthodox Church is “quality-based.” For tradition? faith. There is an issue with regard to the The article below addresses solely his presentation at the Cathedral. As the Orthodox, “catholicity” means fullness language barrier. If I only understood a part Given what Professor Yannaras says, in PHO the lecture was in Greek and my primary language is English with a of experience and of truth at any one of Professor Yannaras’ lecture, I understand conversational knowledge of Greek, and even with the English synopsis Eucharistic gathering (celebration of the making our mark in American society, we even less of the liturgical services in Greek. graciously and spontaneously provided by Christos Tripoulas, it was Liturgy and the Eucharist - Holy Greek-Americans have an opportunity to However, I am not a proponent of admittedly a challenge to capture all his intriguing thoughts. With this Communion). As a parallel example, if one bring Orthodoxy and the high ideals of eliminating the Greek language from article, I believe that my contribution is in presenting what someone needs to see maternal love or romantic Hellenism to American culture and society. liturgical worship given the richness of the like me, the average American-Greek member of the audience, could love, one need only to have one sincere and Can our contribution to intellectual, language, but I am a proponent of finding a ascertain as challenges which can lead to further reflection and become true example and not a multitude of each to educational and political thought in way to make the faith more near and dear catalyst for concrete action. understand its nature. American society sprout from and within to the people, whether it is education, Greek Orthodoxy: the Church as in Byzantium? Cultural or Religious Identity – Refle cting on a Christos Yannaras lecture

translation books or some other means. The The understanding is qualitative. Can the Church really be the new "polis" question is “what?” again today? Generally we, including myself, oli Professor Yannaras operates at such a high plane that it is a challenge to Today our Church is going through a difficult are ignorant of our Hellenistic and To be Hellenic is to be spiritual. And, to be y P period. The complete and total need to ecclesiastical roots. We have a huge spiritual is to joyously contemplate the truth

oth understand the full essence of his very powerful message. He combines a transform the individual's existence into a treasure in Orthodoxy but most of us do not of our existence through the Church; the gift high theological thinking with philosophy of life and this is not what people loving communal and Eucharistic know this. I have only begun to see the given to us by the Truth Who is Christ. relationship has taken second priority to the treasure. Being brought up in a western

y R. Dor lower level needs of society. For Greek- R. Dorothy Poli, a structured finance

B society, we tend to lose the distinction of think about in the everyday occurrence of life. banker by profession, is also the Americans, to rediscover our love for what is western and what is Hellenic and Coordinator of FOS (Forum on Orthodox Hellenism would lead us to offer something this is particularly manifested in our faith. The question of who is a Hellene and what makes one a true Hellene was the basic premise and goal of the presentation. He posed: is it simply a Spirituality), a group of New York Orthodox unique to American culture and society. So we must educate ourselves first by going Greek-born or naturalized citizen regardless of background? Is it anyone who is of Greek descent? Or does being a true Hellene go beyond that professionals that meet weekly to learn Interestingly, he says, “we can become even back to our roots beyond the folklore, which classification to a mode of thinking and way of living. In Professor Yannaras’ view, a true Hellene is characterized by critiquing critical thought about and come deeper into the meaning better Americans if we become true is important to us and also makes us following in the tradition of the ancient Greeks. Critical thought was born in Greece out of the need to seek the deeper truth and not what only of Orthodoxy in order to make it more Hellenes.” interesting to non-Greeks but does not appears to be true. relevant to their lives. FOS is under the necessarily elevate us. How do we give the In order for us to accomplish this, Professor spiritual leadership of Rev. Dr. Frank Professor Yannaras examined next what it means Yannaras urged the Greek-American gift of Orthodoxy and of our original Hellenism to our world so that all in the Marangos, Dean of the Archdiocesan to be a Greek Orthodox. Orthodoxy, he said, community to remain as independent as Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. For more info should not be viewed as simply religion reduced possible institutionally from the modern society can benefit from something that is uniquely ours? on FOS, please visit http://www.theca to a set of rules nor one limited by the instinctual Greek state. Through their heritage, thedral.goarch.org/FOSSummary/. or psychological needs of man. Again, as with however, Greek-Americans can and must How can we spread the word and pass what characterizes a Hellene, it is something assess how and what they can contribute to down this inheritance if we don’t Professor Yannaras addressing Greek American beyond what appears superficially. Christianity is American society in order to actively understand it? Worse yet, we often reduce Educators. Rev. Apostolos, Dean of St. Demetrios characterized by the metaphysical search and continue the high ideals of Hellenic the Church to an ethnic club. As Greek- Cathedral in Astoria, hosted the event, and transformation of our existence, and not a relative tradition. And, if Greeks do not achieve this, Americans assimilate more and more, this journalist Nancy Biska coordinated the program. truth but the absolute truth. A Greek Orthodox some other group that espouses Hellenic engages his inheritance of ancient Greek critical ethnic group will dilute and fade and so will ideals will do so because “truth never dies.” thought to distinguish “truth from falsehood” and our Church as we know it. The Church itself SS then through the Church discover what truly Provocative was his unparalleled call for a will never die because it belongs to Christ exists and what does not, and share that truth by reawakening of what it is to be truly Greek but He may give it to the safekeeping and

A PRE building relationships based on love for God and and a reevaluation of what it can mean to stewardship of others. for one another. be a Greek-American! In practice, do modern-day Greeks continue O: ET T Greeks in the diaspora, throughout the to live the ideals of Hellenism or do we just Whereas we commonly use the words religion live on past glories? Have we reduced

Petros Galatoulas, Consul of Greece Sophia Veve, Member of Parliament George Orfanos, PHO world, do hold on tightly to Greek culture Dimitrios Kalamaras, Dr. Christos Yannaras, Metropolitan Bishop Alexios of Atlanta, and church interchangeably, Professor Yannaras and traditions. Perhaps as a form of self- Orthodoxy to an ideology, a set of rules and Christina Kostakis, George Stavropoulos and Dimitris Filios. makes a distinction in this regard. The Ecclesia or preservation originally, they also linked mere ethnic tradition and not necessarily a as Church became the new “polis” as a place of ethnicity and Church that at times way of life? Do we really make an impact?

congregation and exchange. The polis of ancient Athenian society was not only a group of people co-existing but an expression of a way of life. subordinates our Church to the folkloric annar Their priority was interacting, debating and communing with fellow citizens for the governance of the “polis” and for developing, expressing Further, we often think of Orthodoxy as a

aspects of Greek culture. Professor Yannaras religion of “do’s and don’ts”, (i.e. fasting, os Y and sharing critical thought in search of the truth. The Church too is a place to congregate in order to worship and commune with God as a promotes a link of Church to cultural t community, i.e. communing in unity. standing, being under the constant MAY 2009 identity, but the cultural identity is that of MAY 2009

surveillance of God Who stands ready to Chris arts & culture Hellenism in a way that goes beyond just arts & culture 24 25

Nicholas Bornozis, Nikolas Tsakos, President of Capital Link CEO of TEN Navigation, addressing the participants Capital Link Forum on International Shipping

That shipping remains in the radar of Wall stands at 10 months, while the longest still be there” as the world “needs oil”. Street despite the overall current market recession lasted no more than 16 months. He concluded the speech by warming up the volatility, became clear at the 3rd Annual The current US recession ranks among the crowd with a humorous joke: “What’s the SHIPPING - PACKING - CRATING Capital Link Forum “Invest in International deepest in post-war history, but it is unlikely difference between a shipowner and a Shipping” organized earlier this year in New to break the record by more than a few pirate? A pirate can make money out of a Non stop shipping to and from Greece and Cyprus York City with notable success. The months, thanks to assertive government capesize vessel.” conference was completely booked with a interventions to preserve the banking Also, there were presentations by the participation of 742 attendees and with system, and the very aggressive easing of management of the following companies: standing room only for most presentations fiscal and monetary policy. This would imply • Aries Maritime (NASDAQ:RAMS), throughout the day. Attendance increased a return to positive growth rates by Mr. Jeff Parry, CEO by over 25% from last year, setting a new somewhere around the middle of the year.” • Capital Product Partners record. (NASDAQ: CPLP), by Mr. John Lazaridis, CEO The Forum was highlighted by Luncheon • d'Amico International Shipping The objective of the Forum was to provide Keynote speaker Dr. Peter Swift, Managing (MI: DIS), Mr. Marco Fiori, CEO investors with a comprehensive review and Director of INTERTANKO. INTERTANKO is the • Danaos Corporation (NYSE: DAC), outlook of the various shipping markets as International Association of Independent Mr. Dimitri Andritsoyannis, CFO well as of the participating companies. The Tanker Owners. INTERTANKO has been the • Ocean Rig, a subsidiary of Forum also aimed to enhance the voice of independent tanker owners since DryShips Inc. (NASDAQ: DRYS), Mr. David Mullen, CEO information flow between investors and 1970, ensuring that the oil that keeps the • Euroseas (NASDAQ: ESEA), Mr. shipping companies and to increase the world turning is shipped safely, responsibly Aristides Pittas, CEO awareness about shipping as an industry to and competitively. • Navios Maritime Holdings (NYSE: a wide audience of investors. NM), Mr. Ted Petrone, President Introduced by Mr. Nikolas Tsakos, CEO - • Navios Maritime Partners (NYSE: The conference featured panels on several Tsakos Energy, Dr. Swift addressed a 400- NMM), Mr. Michael McClure, CFO topics of current interest, company strong luncheon crowd of high caliber • OceanFreight (NASDAQ: OCNF), presentations and one-on-one meetings shipping investors, fund managers, Mr. Dimitris Nenes, COO between company management and shipowners, bankers and lawyers. • Omega Navigation Enterprises investors. His speech included a brief introduction on (NASDAQ: ONAV), Mr. Gregory McGrath, INTERTANKO and a comprehensive review CFO According to Mr. Guy Verberne, Head of and outlook of the various shipping • Safe Bulkers (NYSE: SB), Mr. Polys Economics and Investment Strategy of Fortis markets. Speaking on the outlook for tanker Hajioannou, CEO Bank Nederland/Global Markets, markets in 2009, Dr. Swift admitted that • Star Bulk Carriers Corp (NASDAQ: “recessions usually don't last very long: the global oil demand is likely to continue to be SBLK), Mr. George Syllantavos, CFO • Tsakos Energy Corporation (NYSE: post-war average for the United States weakened next year. He added however, MAY 2009 TNP), Mr. George Saroglou, COO event that despite any weakening, demand “will 28 We sell 110 and 220 Volt appliances at wholesale prices

Spring Cleaning

It’s something that you may not look forward to or maybe even dread, but its time for spring cleaning! I know the thought alone is painful for some, while others By Maria Athanasopoulos get the urge to go on a cleaning spree once the warmer weather sets in. Cleaning your home or Aris Melissaratos addressing the event. just your closet, can be a With him are Jerasimos Vasilatos, Eliana grueling and arduous From left, Aris Melissaratos, project if you don’t plan Judge Nicholas Tsoucalas and Stefanitsis, Voula Kavallieratos, Jerasimos ahead. No ladies, I’m Jerasimos Stefanitsis Stefanitsis and Louis Lourentzatos. not talking about One of my favorite things to do is recreating a gourmet meal I had in a restaurant at putting together an home. It’s healthier, less expensive, challenging and truly gratifying. While in Toronto intricate week long action plan, a simple Aris Melissaratos honored by his fellow Cephalonians celebrating Easter with my dad’s side of the family, I had one of the most amazing checklist with “to do” culinary experiences and I immediately knew another food challenge was on my hands. tasks for the day will do. I must confess… I’m a bit Members of the dance group Aris Melissaratos, former secretary of the distinct character of their native island After fasting for 50 days and eating lamb all day on Easter, the last thing I wanted to eat MARIA’S SLATE of a closet spring clean Maryland's Department of Business and within a warm environment, devoid of local on the Monday after was seafood, beans, or lamb. So I ordered what seemed to be a queen. I can not tolerate my apartment to be cluttered, dirty or unorganized. Yes, I realize that Economic Development and currently and sometimes-personal differences that unique Greek dish called “chicken exohicko”. After tasting the first bite of the tender chicken breast filet layered with creamy Romano, feta cheese and roasted peppers hugged I may sound a bit neurotic, but it is simply bad Feng Shui to have an Special Adviser to the President of The have led similar type organizations to inertia imbalanced home. I can not be at peace or even concentrate when Johns Hopkins University for enterprise and finally extinction. They organize a tightly in crisp phyllo dough, I was in heaven. I was certain that such a rich and things are in shambles. At the same time, I work an 11 hour day, write development, was honored at the number of events on a yearly basis in order delicious, yet delicate meal had to be prepared by a gastronomic wizard. After licking my for this lovely magazine, freelance for TV, cook dinner almost every Cephalonian Brotherhood’s annual Gala, to bring closer the youth and also the plate clean, I immediately tried to decipher what ingredients and methods were used so night and am working on a couple other “top secret” projects. Oh held recently in New York. Born in Romania Cephalonians scattered in the tri-state area that I can make this perfect meal at home. yea, did I mention I’m also planning a wedding?! Therefore, I don’t from Cephalonia parents, Mr. Melissaratos and try to reenact customs and, most have the time or energy to devote hours to keeping my home spotless, which is why I realize the importance of a “speedy spring had to flee the country with his family at the importantly, recreate the particular spirit After a few hours of experimenting and taste testing, I proudly created my own version cleaning”. age of three after the communist prevalent in Cephalonian gatherings. of “chicken exohicko”. The end result was just as good, healthier and maybe even a little dictatorship seized power, and his family The organization is credited with better than what I had at the restaurant, due to my substitutions and addition of fresh Creating a “to do” list is essential and the first step. Be certain to have relocated to its native Cephalonia before herbs. This is an elegant meal that you can serve to anyone from hard to impress the necessary cleaning agents and gear before you get started. Next eventually immigrating to the US. establishing in New York the Robola Celebration every December, honoring (in company to your family on a weeknight. You can also make this ahead and refrigerate turn on the music and get started! Remember being organized will At the Gala, Aris recalled with humor his generous doses) the unique wine variety until you are ready to bake. cut your cleaning time in half. time on the island and urged everybody to produced exclusively in Cephalonia. cherish the Cephalonian and Greek heritage Maria’s Prep time: 15 to 20 minutes Here are my top tips and secrets for a speedy spring cleaning. in order to become even better Americans. According to Mr. Stefanitsis, “as Cook time: 35 minutes • Kitchen & Bathroom Cleaning Cephalonians, we recognize that in order to Chicken Exohicko Serves: 4 o These are not my favorite rooms to clean. If you are like A restless mind and innovator himself, Aris preserve our heritage, history and our Ingredients: me, you probably use the heaviest duty cleaning agents in order to Melissaratos is about to publish his new identity in the diaspora, we must 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves get the job done fast. If you do, put the bleach away immediately! book titled Innovation: The Key To communicate, collaborate and unite.” (about 1 pound) Did you know that accidentally mixing products such as ammonia and ½ cup brie cheese, sliced (rinds cut off) Prosperity Technology & America's Role In bleach is toxic and even deadly? About a year ago, another breakthrough ½ cup crumbled feta cheese and 1/5 cup The 21st Century Global Economy, co- set aside of garnish o Since many cleaning products can be hazardous to your authored with N.J. Slabbert. In it, the came with the establishment of the 4 oz reduced fat cream cheese or Neufchatel cheese health and also to the environment, choose “green” cleaning agents. 3 cloves garlic, diced authors call for a renewal of America’s Cephanolian Brotherhood Youth that came They are eco friendly, effective and won’t make you sick. Baking soda to add to the dynamism of the original 1 medium onion, diced commitment to technological innovation, 2 cups fresh spinach also works wonders, use it instead of commercial abrasives to clean your countertops. believing that this will enable the United organization. A prolific dance troupe was 1 egg yolk, beaten States to transform the present economic formed, while excursions and other events 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed to room temperature o Allowing your cleaners to set in one room, while starting brought teenagers and their friends if frozen on another room will make it easier to clean any surface and save you climate into a new age of plenty which will 1 TBPN all-purpose flour time. include effective responses to problems of together to forge bonds of friendship that 2 TBPN Extra-virgin olive oil & a little extra will accompany them for life. Voula for garnish o Use vinegar! Its cheap, quick, green and a great environmental challenge and energy Salt and pepper disinfectant. resources. America’s greatest wealth, the Kavallieratos is the president, with Elian Stefanitsis vice president and Petros • Throw Away, Give Away & Keep authors contend, lies in its intellectual Preparation: o This should be your motto when cleaning your home and capital, which, wisely used, can make the Stellatos treasurer. Public Relations liaisons 1. Preheat oven to 375. Cut chicken breasts in half, place between two sheets of plastic are Elias Georgatos and Denise Grouzis. especially your closet. Over the course of the year, we manage to 21st century a golden age of prosperity for wrap and pound each breast with a meat mallet until flat. Season with salt and pepper. hoard so many unnecessary items and clothes that we create a the world. “The youth is our future and we understand 2. Coat a large skillet with olive oil and place over medium high heat. Add garlic and significant mess and imbalance to our home’s karma. If you haven’t onions and sauté for 2 minutes. Add spinach and sauté for another 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in worn an item in the past year then toss it or if it is in good condition, According to Melissaratos, “this book is that we have the ability to guarantee the promotion of Hellenism and specifically the cream cheese first, then slowly mix in feta, egg yolk, flour, oregano and turn off heat. donate it! dedicated to the Hellenic spirit of freedom 3. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, top with a medium slice of o Many non-profit foundations and charities will come to and discovery that formed the foundation of culture of our beautiful island,” said Louis Lourentzatos, the Brotherhood’s current brie cheese, fresh basil and fold over once in half to close. your home and pick up your donation. The Lupus Foundation is one democracy and Western political and 4. Slowly unfold phyllo dough, lay one sheet out on work surface while keeping the president, pointing out the importance of these, go to www.lupuspickup.org. Not only do they pick up for scientific thought, passed down to me and remaining sheets covered with a damp towel until ready to use. This will prevent them free, they also leave a tax deduction form right on your doorstep! placed to the newly-formed group. my sister, Stella, by our parents, Panagiotis from drying out. Brush sheet lightly with olive oil, top with a second sheet and repeat. • Take One Room at a Time and Anthippi.” (For signed copies or the For more information on the organization 5. Place one chicken mixture on layered phyllo sheets, about 2 inches from the short edge. o You will get more accomplished and be more organized in book or more information visit and its activities the telephone number is Roll over once, fold in the sides and continue to roll neatly in a jelly roll style. Repeat with your cleaning process if you stick to one room at a time. Dividing www.TheArisInstitute.com ) (914) 472-7828 and the email remaining 3 chicken mixtures. parts of the house into two to three days is all helpful and a huge Brains and beauty: 6.Place rolls in a lightly greased baking dish with the seams of the phyllo facing down. stress reliever. Regardless of which room you start with, always begin The Cephalonian Brotherhood of New York [email protected]. For the Aris with his community Youth group, the telephone number is (917) Brush tops with olive oil, sprinkle with feta cheese and oregano. Bake at 375 until golden at the top, from the ceiling to the bottom. Next dust off furniture, Charge d'Affaires Georgia was founded 13 years ago by a group of brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. spray countertops, and leave vacuuming and sweeping last. visionary individuals led by entrepreneur 335-4193 and the email Vavas and the Youth Leaders [email protected] Voula Kavallieratos and Jerarimos Stefanitsis, with the aim to Let cool for a few minutes and dig in! Make this a complete meal by adding a hearty Remember, spring cleaning doesn’t have to happen in one day! It Eliana Stefanitsis preserve and promote to new generations DEMETRIOS RHOMPOTIS vegetable of your preference, like roasted broccoli and garlic. Pair it with toasted bread took all winter for your house to become cluttered and dirty, so take it MAY 2009 drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a nice glass of native Greek Agiorgitiko wine. one day at a time. For more tips and advice, feel free MAY 2009 event to email me at [email protected]. life & style 32 Kali Orexi 33 Exhibition on the Movement for a United Cyprus in Chicago

The Hellenic Museum & Cultural Center in Chicago opened the second phase of its ongoing Cypriot Collection Exhibitions called "Crossing the Line: the Movement for a United Cyprus.” The Cyprus Gallery holds an extensive collection of beautiful works of art and a video with footage of the women’s campaign. There was a welcome to the assembled by Executive Board Member Stephanie Anton Vlahakis who spoke of the Museum and its direction in the future, the importance of the Cypriot Collection and the progress on the new Museum. This collection presents aspects of the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 that left the island physically and emotionally divided, with refugees from both sides unable to return to their homes across the Green Line. Guest Curator Daniela C. Bono with Friend In response to this division, a grass roots movement called “Women Walk Home” developed. With the aim of one day living in a united Stephanie Cyprus with freedom of movement, these women staged marches to Anton attempt to cross the Green Line. Their successes brought attention to Vlahakis "the Cyprus problem" while giving women a new found place in the political arena. By examining art, objects, documents and first-hand accounts, this exhibit will show how daily life on the island was disrupted by the invasion and while also revealing the subsequent movement for reunification. The exhibition was guest curated by Daniela C. Bono of the Field Museum of Natural History. Daniela was awarded the Brunilde Ridgway Fellowship and spent the summer of 2007 in Agios Georgios in Cyprus where she worked on the Yeronisos Island Excavation. For more information regarding this exhibition, please contact the Museum at Guest admiring 312-655-1234. a work by Hambis Tsanganis Tracing the early Greek immigrants

The Greek Consulate in N e w Yo r k h o st e d a program entitled “A Journey, A Dream and a Fulfillment: The Story of the Greek American I m m i g r a n t . ” T h e presentation was given by the Co-Founders of The Greek Museum, the Center of Greek American Heritage, Katherine R. Boulukos and Anastasia N i c h o l a s i n a s l i d e program. It told the story of the early immigrants with photographs that are part of their collection. It traced their arrivals, their businesses and their lives.

Mrs. Agi Balta, Consul General of Greece, welcomed the women and praised their efforts in working to establish a Greek immigrant museum in the metropolitan area. She offered enthusiastic words of encouragement on this project. As a “museum in the making”, she urged the support from the general public to establish such an institution in the near future.

A large audience watched the photographs, which traced the story of the early immigrants, an under documented group that comprised people from varied backgrounds who managed to find their way in industry, commerce and trade. The presentation included some vintage pictures from the turn of the century. A lively question and answer period followed the presentation. periX scope “Those folks had their priorities straight”

As you probably noticed in the previous pages, this NEO issue is “After Cyprus gained her independence, the Imprisoned Tombs devoted to Cyprus and my Perixscope could not be an exception, became a national monument where thousands visit. A sign because as with most Hellenes, the island is very close to my heart, proclaiming ‘The brave man's death is no death at all’ was put up even though I never went there. But again, I never went to Thrace against one of the walls. During the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974 or Crete and they still are very close to my heart. When it comes to battles raged around the Central Jail of Lefkosia. Vastly outnumbered, Hellenism you don’t need to witness a place to consider it part of the Cypriot national guardsmen - aided by correction officers - your own “territorial” background, the cultural connection, the managed to fight off the Turks and faith and the common march through the millenia suffice to bind keep the jail with its Imprisoned you with it forever. Tombs from being captured.” A part of Cypriot history that I believe remains relatively unknown to us and the rest of the world is the anti-colonial struggle against We American Hellenes are proud the British in the ‘50s, that proved with deeds, not just words, that of our ancestors’ deeds, especially yes, Hellenes can still astound humanity by the quality of their from the antiquity. With all due spirit. A new line of martyrs, of real heros that could inspire every respect, the EOKA martyrs and generarion and every nationality, rose from that struggle and fighters were no less remarkable although politics did not let their dream come true to the fullest, it and no less important for made us reaffirm the belief in everything we stand for as Hellenes. humanity because they struggled To use a phrase, one of just very few that I happened to like from for the universal values of freedom former President Bush, “those folks had their priorities straight!” and self-rule. They also showed Moreover, that part of Cyprus history sheds light on today’s facts on that King Leonidas of Sparta can be the ground and why it’s so hard to find a solution to the island’s revived by his descendants in the division after the brutal Turkish invasion. battlefield – not just in a Evagoras Pallikaridis, despite Hollywood movie or by the Belgian As we read, “in 1955, after a long but unsuccessful struggle to attain his youth - he was only 18 at chocolatier of the same name. their freedom by peaceful means, the people of Cyprus took up the time - he was sentenced arms against the colonial power under the EOKA .(Ethiniki Not long ago, an event in Astoria Organosis Kypriakou Agonos = National Organization of Cypriot to die for gun possession. His parents' pleas to Queen o r ga n i ze d b y t h e C y p r u s Struggle), demanding the end of colonialism and union with Federation of America, Petros Greece. The British Government, in its attempt to thwart the Elizabeth - a young mother herself at the time - for mercy Petrides and a few other Cyprus people's aspirations for self-determination, exploited the individuals, paid tribute to the presence in Cyprus of the Turkish Cypriot minority, and sought went unheeded and the young hero was hanged on EOKA martyrs in a very special way. assistance from Turkey in obstructing the natural trend of events in No speeches were pronounced, March 14, 1957 - 15 days Cyprus. The British Government threatened that if self only excerpts from letters those determination were ever to be achieved in Cyprus, the result would after his 19th birthday. young heroes wrote to their Continued from page 23 be the partition of the island since the Turkish Cypriot minority families while they were awaiting execution. The calmness, growth of new businesses. Multi-billion dollar bailout packages inject would be offered the right to self-determination separately. That unequivocal faith to what they stood for, an absolute certainty in ultimately became one of two senior professionals to remain funds into financial institutions, but do not ensure an increasing threat might have been intended to discourage the Cypriot Resurrection as Christians, the complete absence of fanaticism, hatred employed out of an original team of over 20 people. We are now a supply of necessary loans or ease in mortgage repayment terms. In people's struggle for freedom, but its consequences were quite or sorrow, showed how exceptional those people who led by example part of Neuberger Berman, which assumed the private equity assets addition, the financial marketplace is a global economy and, as such, different. Instead, the partition of Cyprus became an objective of were. Archbishop Demetrios of America called them “martyrs of the of Lehman Brothers. we must be open to the idea of growing our international fiscal policy Turkish foreign policy and a number of Turkish Cypriots took up Church, too” and proposed for their correspondence to be collected, though a marked expansion in exports. arms against the Cypriot freedom fighters while the Turkish Cypriot translated and published as a testament to all Hellenes and Orthodox. Wall Street can be a questionably myopic place. Through my nine leadership advocated either partition or the continuation of British Who are your heroes in real life? years in the industry, I have seen entire divisions of major investment colonial rule.” The divide and rule principle in exemplary I feel fortunate in saying that my real-life heroes are within my own banks let go during a downturn, only to be rebuilt and hired back application! Plaque for lees known heroes and members of the 1955-59 ΕΟΚΑ struggle family. My father is a New Jersey State Judge, a position which immediately during the inevitable upturn, which can ironically follow for Independence of Cyprus next to the monument of Kyriakos Karaolis at warrants the respect of individuals outside of our family. He is also an During the epic struggle against the British colonial forces - under shortly thereafter. I think this is somewhat analogous to the Aglandjia, Nicosia. Almost all of them died of torture at the hands of the Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the highest honor awarded to the leadership of Sir (sic) John Harding, synonymous with brutality traditional approach in dealing with the cyclical extremities of the U.S. a layman in our faith. My father has balanced his faith and his career. in Cyprus - a number of young heroic figures sprouted like Spring British colonial forces. economy. Letting suffering businesses fail and cutting multi-billion That said, my personal respect for him is founded in the man and flowers and became symbols of freedom. The Central Jail of the checks are a reactive start; creative initiatives involving international father that he is, and whom I aspire to emulate. Similarly, my mother capital Lefkosia not only held in its cells many of those heros, but is cooperation and immediate liquidity are preventative solutions. is an author and a loving woman who has always put her family first. also known for the Imprisoned Tombs where 13 of the EOKA fighters were interred. “Nine of them were hanged by the British, Finally, my first cousin John Vartanian is a soldier in the U.S. Army Where would you like to be in your professional and personal life 20 Special Forces based in Iraq. His son, my cousin John Jr., chose to three fell on the battlefield and one died in hospital from his battle years from now? wounds. The tombs were built in an area adjacent to the cells of the heroically follow in his father’s footsteps and is an airman in the U.S. I would like to own my own business: specifically an alternative capital condemned and close to the gallows where they would be Air Force with tours of duty in Iraq. We enjoy the freedom which they firm which principally invests in other alternative capital executed.” In Europe, the one and only similar case of imprisoned help to provide and protect. partnerships. I also have an interest in the placement agency business tombs was in Enver Hohza’s (the Albanian communist dictator) and am fortunate that my current position allows me to explore both regime, against which the supposedly democratic Britain was avenues. With time, I would like to exit the finance industry and How do you spend your time outside of work? standing as a NATO and free world member! I enjoy spending time with my family and group of friends, particularly pursue independent film production. I love what I do, but am also very at events within the New York Greek community. Working out passionate about film and would like to pursue this as a new chapter When the mother of the 19-year-old Evagoras Pallikarides appealed to the young, (in her 30s then) Queen Elizabeth, who had regularly and Greek dance comprise my physical fitness routine. I am later in life, if blessed to have succeeded in my current profession. In terms of my personal life, I hope to have a loving wife who makes recently become mother, asking to pardon her son, the latter also a cinemaphile and a big New York Giants fan. me laugh. My parents have been together for 39 years and my wasn’t moved by her plea. Not even her husband, partly of Greek What are your thoughts on the current economic crisis? ultimate hope is to have a marriage as happy as theirs, with children origin, felt the need to persuade her. In the meantime, fresh was The current economic crisis has a profound impact upon on us all. I who have the same love and respect for one another as I have for my the blood of the Cypriot fighters on the side of British forces during miss seeing the friends I had worked with daily at Lehman Brothers. sister. World War II, saving her majesty’s ass from her cousins, the Nazis! I’m not sure that there is a clear-cut remedy; however, Wall Street can What is your idea of happiness? For the record, the names of only those buried in the Imprisoned modify its proactive and reactive approaches to the crisis. Tombs are Michalis Karaolis, Andreas Dimitriou, Iakovos Patatsos, I think we can start with proactive measures, namely stimulating the I am happy when I see the people I love most and care about at peace, Andreas Zakos, Charilaos Michail, Michail Koutsoftas, Stelios availability of liquidity to protect bank lending, money market funds in good health and enjoying their lives. I am at peace within my Greek Orthodox Christian faith. Mavrommatis, Andreas Panagidis, Evagoras Pallikaridis, Markos MAY 2009 and making sure that working capital exists for the sustenance and DEMETRIOS RHOMPOTIS MAY 2009 Leadership 100 Drakos, Grigoris Afxentiou, Stylianos Lenas and Kyriakos Matsis. [email protected] periXscope 36 37 Anna as arr

Vissi than K y A in Hollywood B Who can ever Anna’s recent visit to California’s southland chose to celebrate Greek Easter at Hollywood’s SBE’s AREA forget that NIGHTCLUB, home of the Hollywood heavyweight celebrities and upbeat latest rage partygoers at this airy incredible space fancy Mid-Century Modern décor. It was just what Anna Vissi, the ultimate superstar and reigning queen of appearance that Greek music, chose appropriately the AREA nightclub, a latest addition of expanding nightlife in Los Angeles ANNA VISSI hotspots to celebrate Greek Easter.. Anna reached out to entertain her young fans in southern California as she made at the does all over the world adorned her fans with a new previewed CD bearing the title “APAGOREVMENO” Olympics (forbidden), composed by Patrick Leonard and Kara Dioguardi, who have been associated with Celine Dion, closing Gwen Stefani, Santana and others bearing delicate and sensitive intriguing arrangements, bringing out Anna ceremonies in Vissi’s torch like moods that flared throughout the multiple TV monitors at the Area Club. Fans anxiously Athens 2004. waited, while others stretched on banquettes and sofas in intimate seating areas surrounding the dance floor She took the flanked by the club’s two bars. The poised fans eagerly waited for the goddess to appear and as she emerged, stage like the young celebrants with flowers in hand hoisted her on the dance floor while sparkling flashing cell phone cameras love song snapped commemorating this special holiday for Greeks. She opened in soft spoken Greek a warm narration, and goddess she’s invited all to join at this momentous special occasion. Anna Vissi is no stranger to Los Angeles, frequently visits become as for recording sessions and concerts and this Hollywood nightspot gave her a new energy to reinvent herself with might be enthusiastic Greek and crossover audiences in a mix of young fans who find her as fascinating, and impulsively expected being attractive, sexy and sultry as she moved lithely delivering songs with an undulating vibrant rhythmic pulsation, born in Cyprus, that brought the AREA Greek club to a flaming excitement. Eager and restless young ladies in miniskirts representing raged at the shortened spirits of young men casually dressed, with multiple spiked hairdos all waved ar Greek Aphrodite the ms and writhed while Anna Vissi took the floor to nonstop renditions, a mike in hand embracing and reputed love contacting her audience few performers rarely involve goddess of their fans. Anna’s stellar career is a perfect example of a talent that Greek showed promise very early in her high school years in Larnaca, Cyprus, where she excelled and encouraged to mythology born continue musical studies, along with classical piano and dance. Her natural talent immediately burst through that on the by the age of twelve she was signed for her first recording contract. Her collaboration with Nicos Karvelas MAY 2009 seashores of brought her even greater attention and soon began a arts & culture touring career in Greece and immediately after that in 38 Cyprus. Europe, where sell-out crowds thronged at the theaters.